Chewable birth control options, their safety aspects, and places for purchase explained
In the world of birth control, chewable options are a less common choice, but they do exist. Here's a closer look at chewable birth control pills, their availability, and how they work.
Chewable birth control pills are not widely marketed or commonly available, with most oral contraceptives coming in tablet form that is swallowed whole. However, some brands do offer formulations that are chewable or dissolvable in certain markets, although these are less common.
Most birth control pills available on the market are not chewable but conventional swallowable tablets. They generally fall into two categories: combined oral contraceptives, which contain estrogen and progestin, and progestin-only pills.
Combined oral contraceptives, such as Vyfemla (Norethindrone and Ethinyl Estradiol), come in various brand-name versions like Alyacen, Aranelle, Balziva, Cyclafem, and others. Some of these may have chewable versions or include iron to help prevent anemia, but it depends on the brand and formulation.
Progestin-only pills, like Opill, are available over the counter and come as daily oral contraceptives but are in tablet form rather than chewable.
If you're specifically seeking chewable birth control pills, the current mainstream options may be limited or not readily available in the U.S. market. Examples of chewable birth control brands include Tyblume, Minastrin 24 Fe, Wymzya Fe, Generess Fe, Layolis Fe, Kaitlib Fe, Zenchent Fe, Finzala Fe, and Nexesta Fe.
It's essential to note that crushing or chewing regular birth control pills may change their effectiveness and increase the risk of overdose. Similarly, if parts of the pills become stuck in a person's teeth, it could potentially reduce the dose, posing a risk.
Chewable birth control pills, like their traditional counterparts, contain a combination of estrogen and progestin hormones. These hormones prevent ovulation and reduce the chances of pregnancy, making them an effective contraceptive method. The effectiveness of chewable birth control is similar to that of traditional combined pills.
The Affordable Care Act requires insurance plans to cover birth control, including chewable birth control. However, insurance may have limitations on the brands of chewable birth control covered.
People who find both swallowing and chewing difficult can consider alternative birth control options such as implants, intrauterine devices, and injections. Chewable birth control pills require thorough chewing and a glass of water after consumption.
Chewable birth control pills, like all contraceptive methods, carry risks. Although rare, the development of blood clots is one of the potential risks associated with chewable birth control.
For those seeking affordable birth control options, Planned Parenthood, local nonprofit health clinics, and city and county departments of health can provide accessible and affordable choices.
In summary, while chewable birth control pills are not as common as traditional pills, they do exist and can be a viable option for some individuals. It's crucial to consult with a medical professional to determine the right chewable birth control brand based on individual needs and to understand the potential risks and benefits.
Women interested in chewable birth control might find a limited number of brands available, as most oral contraceptives are tablets meant to be swallowed whole. However, chewable versions do exist, such as Tyblume, Minastrin 24 Fe, Wymzya Fe, Generess Fe, Layolis Fe, Kaitlib Fe, Zenchent Fe, Finzala Fe, and Nexesta Fe.
Science and health-and-wellness advances have led to the development of chewable birth control pills, which, like their traditional counterparts, contain a combination of estrogen and progestin hormones. These hormones prevent ovulation and reduce the chances of pregnancy, making them an effective contraceptive method.
Insurance plans, under the Affordable Care Act, are required to cover birth control, including chewable options. However, there may be limitations on the specific brands covered, so it's essential to discuss with a healthcare provider.
